Newcastle United Eye Move for Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg as Matthias Jaissle Builds His Squad

August 08, 2026

Newcastle United are exploring the possibility of signing Denmark midfielder Pierre-Emile Højbjerg as new head coach Matthias Jaissle begins putting his stamp on the squad at St. James’ Park. Sky Sports report that a move is being looked at for the 30-year-old, who currently plays for Marseille in Ligue 1 following his departure from Tottenham Hotspur.

Jaissle was appointed as Newcastle’s new manager just days ago, stepping in to replace Eddie Howe after the club decided to move in a different direction following a mixed end to last season. The Austrian, who made his name in Europe with Red Bull Salzburg, is now tasked with shaping a squad capable of competing at the top of the Premier League and in European competition — and Højbjerg is apparently on his shortlist.

Højbjerg is a player who needs little introduction to Premier League fans. He spent five years at Tottenham between 2020 and 2025, becoming one of the most reliable holding midfielders in the division during that period. He was a consistent presence in the Spurs engine room, valued for his reading of the game, defensive work rate and leadership on the pitch. He captained the Danish national side to the 2026 World Cup, where Denmark reached the last 16 before exiting to hosts USA.

After leaving Spurs, Højbjerg moved to Marseille, where he has continued to perform at a high level in Ligue 1. At 30, he is at an interesting stage of his career — experienced enough to be a reliable senior presence, but not yet at the point where clubs would be reluctant to invest in him. A move to Newcastle, with their resources and ambitions under PIF ownership, would represent an attractive opportunity for a player of his profile.

Newcastle’s interest is still at an exploratory stage and nothing has been agreed, but the fact that Jaissle is considering him so early in his tenure suggests the new manager sees a specific need in the holding midfield position. With the new 2026-27 season approaching fast, the Magpies will need to move quickly if they want to get business done.